Framework Laptop 13 Pro Is a Major Overhaul For the Modular, Upgradeable Laptop
Source: Slashdot
Overview
Framework has been selling and shipping its modular, repairable, upgradable Laptop 13 for five years, releasing six distinct system‑board versions (seven if the experimental RISC‑V board is counted). Over time the laptop gained higher‑resolution screens (matte and glossy), a slightly larger battery, and other incremental refinements, while keeping full part interchangeability and an essentially unchanged chassis.
The Framework Laptop 13 Pro marks the first major redesign of the line. It introduces:
- New Core Ultra Series 3 chips (codenamed Panther Lake)
- Framework’s first touchscreen
- A new black aluminum color option
- A larger battery
- Other significant internal updates
Although some component compatibility with the original Laptop 13 is lost, the displays and motherboards remain interchangeable. Existing owners can install the new Core Ultra board in their current chassis to gain the upgraded battery and screen. At 1.4 kg (≈ 3 lb), the Pro is slightly heavier than the original’s 1.3 kg but still lighter than the 14‑inch M5 MacBook Pro (1.55 kg / 3.4 lb).
More details are available on the official product page: Framework Laptop 13 Pro and in the Ars Technica report: Framework Laptop 13 Pro is the first major revision to the original Framework laptop.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra Series 3 (Panther Lake) – options include Core Ultra 5 325, Core Ultra X7 358H, and Core Ultra X9 388H
- Display: 13‑inch touchscreen, higher‑resolution panel (interchangeable with original Laptop 13 screens)
- Battery: Larger capacity than previous models (compatible with older displays)
- Color: Black aluminum (in addition to existing finishes)
- Weight: 1.4 kg (≈ 3 lb)
- Compatibility: Motherboards and displays are interchangeable with the original Laptop 13; other components may differ
Pricing and Availability
| Configuration | DIY (no RAM/SSD/OS) | Pre‑built (Ubuntu) | Windows 11 add‑on |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Ultra 5 325 | $1,199 | $1,499 | +$100 |
| Core Ultra X7 358H | $1,599 (DIY) | — | — |
| Core Ultra X9 388H (limited batch) | $1,799 (DIY) | — | — |
| Bare motherboard – Core Ultra 5 325 | $449 | — | — |
| Bare motherboard – Core Ultra X7 358H | $799 | — | — |
Pre‑orders are open now, with shipments slated to begin in June.